Book

God and Money

by John Cortines, Gregory Baumer

📖 Overview

God and Money examines Biblical principles and practical applications for managing wealth as Christians. Two Harvard MBA graduates share their transformation from pursuing wealth accumulation to embracing radical generosity. The authors present research, statistics, and case studies about giving patterns among Christians in America. They outline specific frameworks for budgeting, investing, and charitable giving based on Biblical teachings and contemporary financial practices. The book includes personal stories from wealthy individuals who practice faith-based financial stewardship. Worksheets and action steps guide readers through evaluating their own relationship with money and creating giving plans. This work challenges conventional ideas about prosperity and success by reframing wealth as a tool for Kingdom impact. The intersection of faith and finance raises questions about purpose, contentment, and the role of Christians in addressing global needs through strategic generosity.

👀 Reviews

Readers appreciate the book's practical framework for biblical financial management, particularly the specific percentage guidelines for giving and spending. Many note that it challenges conventional Christian teachings about money by advocating for more radical generosity. Positive comments focus on: - Clear action steps and budget templates - Personal stories from the authors - Biblical references supporting financial concepts - Focus on contentment over accumulation Critical feedback mentions: - Content geared toward high-income earners - Some repetition of concepts - Limited advice for those in debt or poverty Ratings: Amazon: 4.8/5 (289 reviews) Goodreads: 4.4/5 (231 ratings) One reader noted: "Finally, a Christian finance book that goes beyond tithing and tackles wealth with theological depth." Another commented: "The examples assume six-figure incomes, making it less relevant for average earners." The book's core message about generous giving resonates with readers regardless of income level, though implementation varies based on financial circumstances.

📚 Similar books

Your Money or Your Life by Vicki Robin, Joe Dominguez This book connects financial decisions with life purpose through a nine-step program that integrates money management with personal values and spiritual growth.

The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn The text presents Biblical foundations for generosity and stewardship while exploring the relationship between wealth and eternal perspective.

Neither Poverty Nor Riches by Craig Blomberg This work examines Biblical teachings about wealth and possessions through historical and theological analysis of scripture.

Money, Possessions, and Eternity by Randy Alcorn The book provides a comprehensive framework for understanding money management through Christian principles and eternal perspective.

The Economics of Good and Evil by Tomas Sedlacek This work traces the relationship between economics and morality from ancient texts through modern financial systems, connecting monetary decisions with ethical considerations.

🤔 Interesting facts

🌟 Both authors were Harvard Business School students who took a life-changing course called "God and Money" that inspired them to write this book and radically alter their approach to wealth. 💫 The authors suggest setting a "finish line" for your income - a predetermined amount beyond which you'll give away 100% of additional earnings to charitable causes. 🎯 The book reveals that the average American Christian gives away only 2.5% of their income, far below the traditional tithe of 10%. ⚡ Cortines and Baumer, both successful businessmen, personally committed to living on modest salaries and giving away up to 90% of their substantial incomes. 🌍 The authors developed a framework called "God's Provident Plan," which outlines seven core principles for biblical money management, including contentment, generosity, and eternal perspective.